My red eared slider has swollen front legs

Customer Question

Hello and welcome. Thank you for requesting me. I'm sorry to hear of your turtle's problem. There are a few different conditions that could cause such symptoms, so we need to try to narrow it down. Some additional information will be useful.What brand and size of UVB light do you have? How old is the bulb?Does she get a calcium supplement?How is her appetite?Is she as active as usual?Thank you.Anna

Thank you for getting back to me. By natural sunlight, do you mean she spends a lot of time outdoors, or is it light through a window?Do you happen to know the brand of the sun lamp?Sorry to have so many questions, but this information is important in determining what is wrong.

Exo terra reptile uvb 200 26 My turtle gets 8 hours of outdoor sunshine every 6-7 days normally.When I am away for business she stays in the garage on her pen with light on 8 hours.I have a timer.

Customer:replied 2 years ago.

The swelling is actually on her legs in the front not the back. It almost feels like a balloon,and prevents her from pulling her leg back into her shell. She just finished eating before this email to you.

Thank you. Metabolic Bone Disease can cause swelling in the front or back legs, but we can now rule that out. That leaves two possibilities and both will require a vet to diagnose and treat them. One possibility i a systemic infection. That would require a safe prescription antibiotic, such as Baytril.Another possibility is an internal problem. Disorders of the kidneys or heart can cause swelling. So can certain endocrine disorders and nutrient imbalances. A vet will need to visually examine her, and probably do blood work. An x-ray may also be needed. Once a diagnosis is reached, proper treatment can begin. If you don't know if a reptile vet, let me know your zip code and I'll help locate one. If you have more questions, let me know in a REPLY. I hope your turtle will be fine.Anna

You're welcome, Alma. If you want, let me know what the vet finds. Thank you.AnnaMy goal is to provide you with excellent service – if you feel you have gotten anything less, please reply back, I am happy to address follow-up questions. Please remember to rate my service only after you have all the information you need. Thank you!